How Do You Split and Double in Blackjack?

In blackjack, to split is to divide your cards into two separate hands, and to double is to double your bet and receive one more card. You would split when you have two cards of the same value, such as two 8s, and you would double when you have a good hand and the dealer has a bad upcard.

To split, simply place an additional bet next to your original bet. The dealer will then give each hand its own second card.

For example, if you split 8s and are dealt a 9 and a 3, your first hand would be worth 9+3=12 and your second hand would be worth 8+9=17. Note that you would hit on the 12 and stand on the 17.

To double, place an additional bet next to your original bet and then take one more card face-up. You can only double on your first two cards (known as a “hard” hand), so if you were dealt a 9-7 (hard 16), you could double down.

After placing your bet, the dealer will give you one more card face-up. In this case, let’s say you were dealt a 4, so your hand would be worth 9+7+4=20.

The only time you would not split or double is when it’s mathematically incorrect to do so. For example, if you have a hard 16 (9-7) and the dealer has a 7 showing (good for them), it would be incorrect to double because your chances of winning are only about 31%.

It would also be incorrect to split because 16 is such a low number. In general, always split Aces and 8s, but never 4s, 5s or 10s.

If you have any other questions about how to split or double in blackjack, feel free to ask one of our friendly dealers the next time you’re at Casino Rama Resort!.